NEWPORT, Ore. -- The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will host a Family Fishing event June 9 at Olalla Reservoir on the Oregon Coast. The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will include a stocked fish enclosure for youth and family fishing, with loaner gear and volunteer instructors provided.

Pre-registration is not required for this free event that will replace the popular Free Fishing Day held at Big Creek Reservoir in previous years.

The 2012 Family Fishing event at Olalla Reservoir is part of the ODFW Outdoors program and is designed to introduce young people and their families to the fun of fishing. In addition to fishing, activities will include spin and fly casting games and a knot tying station.

“Fishing is an excellent way for families to spend quality time together enjoying the great outdoors,” said Christine Clapp, ODFW biologist in charge of the event. “We encourage anybody who wants to find out more about how and where to fish to join us June 9 at Olalla Reservoir. It’s fun, it’s easy and it’s free.”

The Family Fishing event is one of several activities ODFW has planned across the state during Free Fishing Weekend. Free Fishing Weekend, which falls on June 9-10 this year, allows adults and children the opportunity to try fishing, crabbing and clamming all weekend long without having to purchase a fishing license. All other regulations and bag limits continue to apply. Under Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations, anglers 13 years old and younger can fish for free during any open season, making every day Free Fishing Day! Otherwise, a juvenile license is required for anglers 14-17 years of age who choose to fish before or after Free Fishing Weekend. All other anglers must have an adult fishing license outside of Free Fishing Weekend.

Olalla Reservoir is located about five miles northeast of Toledo, Oregon. From Hwy. 20, follow Olalla Road north to Olalla Reservoir City Park. Participants will be able to park at the reservoir but parking is limited and will be available on a first come, first serve basis. For more information, call Christine Clapp at 541-265-8306 x253 or check the ODFW Outdoors calendar online at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/education/outdoor_skills/workshops/index.asp.

Do you have a question or comment for ODFW? Contact ODFW's Public Service Representative at: odfw.info@state.or.us
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